The Tampa Bay Lightning welcomed the return to play of defenseman David Savard on Saturday afternoon in Game 4 of the second-round series between them and the Carolina Hurricanes.
The Quebecer had missed the three previous duels due to an upper body injury. On his return, the full-back played for more than 13 minutes and contributed to the victory of his team 6-4.
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“He had a good time in this game,” said head coach Jon Cooper, whose comments were reported by the National Hockey League website.
The “Bolts” driver even added that Savard was one of the elements that explained the team’s victory, even though he received two minor penalties.
“It’s a tough command to come into a series that is very fast and to play without having played the first three games,” said Cooper. He needs to play with a bit of bite, like he did in Florida’s last two series. He was mean and I think that improves his game. ”
A good acquisition
In the fourth game against the “Canes”, Savard played only his 21st game in the uniform of the Lightning. The native of Saint-Hyacinthe was obtained from the Columbus Blue Jackets on April 10 in a trade also involving the Detroit Red Wings.
Along with first-year forward Ross Colton, he is the only “Bolts” player who was not from the 2019-20 champion roster. This does not prevent him from having a very important role, however, according to defender Victor Hedman.
“We can see why we bought him and it’s for this type of game,” said the Swedish full-back. He’s physical, he’s a machine for blocking shots. He is not afraid to support the attack and he always makes good passes. We play a different style from Columbus, but it fits in so well. It’s obviously a good thing he’s back. ”
Savard and the Lightning will look to end the series against the Hurricanes on Tuesday night at PNC Arena, where the Florida club have already signed two wins.
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